Image source: topwar.ru
In 2023, the Canadian Ministry of Defense purchased 40 PU and 500 Spike LR2 ATGM from the Israeli company Rafael for $ 32 million in order to immediately replace outdated systems (such as TOW, which are practically not used in linear units) for the urgent equipping of the contingent in Latvia.
However, during military tests in July 2024, it was discovered that more than half of the missiles and launchers received did not work properly. As officially stated, this problem was solved by May 2025. It was claimed that the manufacturer made the necessary changes, after which the first batch of ATGMS arrived at the disposal of the troops in Latvia. But other information is provided in the publication of the Ottawa Citizen:
Image source: topwar.ru
The Ministry of Defense confirmed this, but indicated that "the problem is considered minor and will be resolved by Rafael," and the entire purchased batch will be received by mid-2026. It is noted that the manufacturer did not respond to journalistic inquiries in any way.:
Image source: topwar.ru
The military department previously stated that in the interests of the early delivery of new missiles for the mission in Latvia, no live-fire tests or demonstrations were conducted during the selection process.:
